Environmental Film Series 2026 August: Systems change – alternatives to consumerism

About This Event

Are you ready to look beyond relentless economic growth and explore real, ground-level alternatives to modern consumerism?

Join the Surf Coast Environment Group (SCEG) for an inspiring evening of film, conversation, and community action as we kick off our 2026 Environmental Film Series!

We’re bringing together two powerful films—System Update | Rebooting Our Future and The New Peasants—to challenge the status quo and shine a light on creative, resilient paths forward.

Whether you’re already engaged in local sustainability or simply curious about post-consumerist living, this event offers a welcoming space to connect with like-minded locals, gain fresh perspectives, and enjoy great food.

What’s Included in Your Ticket

• Double-Feature Screening: Highlighting systemic solutions and community-led alternatives to modern economic pressure.

• Light Supper: Enjoy delicious local bites during intermissions and networking.

• Community Connection: Connect with neighbors, local leaders, and grass-roots organizers.

The Films

1. System Update | Rebooting Our Future (2025) (58min)

A bold, thought-provoking exploration into the economic and cultural frameworks driving environmental crisis—and the visionary systems ready to replace them. System Update asks the big question: How do we upgrade societal priorities toward well-being, equity, and ecological balance?

2. The New Peasants (2025) (66min)

An intimate and inspiring look at the growing global movement of people stepping off the hyper-consumer treadmill. From localised agriculture to self-reliance and shared resources, The New Peasants illustrates how returning to simpler, soil-connected roots can heal both community and planet. Winner of Best Environmental Documentary at the Melbourne Documentary Film Festival 2025

Event Schedule

• 6:30 PM: Doors Open

• 7:00 PM: Film Screening: Systems Update

• 8:00 PM: Intermission - Q&A, Raffle & Light Supper served in the hall

• 9.00 PM: Film Screening: The New Peasants

• 10.00 PM: Evening Concludes

Venue & Date Information

• Date: Friday, August 21, 2026

• Time: Doors open at 6:30 PM (Event runs 7:00 PM – 9:30 PM)

• Venue: Torquay Improvement Association (TIA) Main Hall

• Address: Price Street, Torquay VIC

Tickets & Pricing

• SCEG Members: Free Priority Access (RSVP required)

• General Community: Free / Suggested Donation

Note: While tickets are free to ensure community accessibility, seats are strictly limited. Please reserve your ticket in advance to secure your spot and assist us with catering numbers!

THANKS TO FILM SERIES SPONSOR - SURF COAST SHIRE EVENTS

Thank you for supporting SCEG! If you would like to join us, become a member or donate to help us continue our vital work, please visit us at: www.sceg.org.au

We are a 100% volunteer community organisation, so it would be a huge help to follow, like, comment and share our work on socials, Instagram, Facebook and Linkedin ...Thank you!

*Please note some details of the event may change at our discretion.

*Please note photography and filming will conducted on the night for SCEG marketing purposes and help share awareness of our vital environmental work, but let us know if you don't want to be photographed or filmed.